Rome Public Transport : How to Get Around and Save Money with Passes

Heading to Italy and thinking about how to get around using Rome public transport?

Rome's got this whole network of buses, trams, and a metro that are super easy to use once you get the hang of it. It's for me the best way to zip around the city and visit all the most iconic historical sites.

But how to snag tickets at the right cost ?

Which Rome travel pass will save you the most cash if you're planning to hop around the city a lot?

How to ride the metro like a local?

Here are my tips to master Rome’s public transport like a pro.

Rome Public Transport (7 Key Points Explained)

Whether you're a first-timer or back for more, it’s always good to know how getting around Rome by public transport.

Prices, places to buy tickets, means of payment…

Let’s have a look at the best way to get around Rome.

1. How Much Is Public Transport in Rome?

Good news, it doesn’t break the bank like… At all! Plan to spend only 1,50 € for a single ride on the metro, bus, or tram.

Those single tickets are great for short trips across town. If you're planning a full day of sightseeing, then the 7 € day pass is a great option.

It allows unlimited rides and it’s the best way to get around Rome for cheap. This option is profitable from 5 rides a day.

2. Where to Buy Public Transport Tickets In Rome?

The easiest and quickest solution when you arrive in Rome is to head to any metro station.

There, machines and counters will allow you to buy any kind of ticket. Not near one? No worries. Tabacchi shops (marked with a ‘T' sign) and some newsstands also sell them.

Tip – One thing to remember though, buses and trams don't sell tickets onboard, so pick them up in advance.

3. How to Validate Rome Public Transport Ticket?

It’s a must-do to avoid a hefty fine. Once you board a bus or tram, look for the yellow or gray boxes near the doors. Slide your ticket in to stamp the time and date.

On the metro, the validation happens when you pass through the turnstile. You can’t get it wrong as the turnstile won’t open if the ticket isn’t valid.

4. How Do You Pay for Public Transport In Rome?

You can buy tickets using cash or credit/debit cards at metro stations and tabacchi shops. You can also download the TicketAppy app on your smartphone and pay online.

5. Does Public Transportation In Rome Close at Night?

Yes, most of Rome's public transportation services have closing times at night. The metro, for example, closes at 11:30 PM on weekdays and 1:30 am on weekends.

Please note there are still some night buses that run throughout the city.

6. Is Contactless Payment Accepted in Rome's Public Transport System?

Yes, you can use contactless credit or debit cards at many ticket machines and on newer buses and trams. You can also download the TicketAppy app on your smartphone and pay directly online.

7. Is Rome's Public Transportation Connected to the Airports?

Good news for travelers, Rome's public transportation system is connected to its airports. You can reach the city centre from both Fiumicino and Ciampino airport using trains, buses or shuttles.

The Rome Public Transport Card (check the price here) is a great option for easy access to and from the airport, as well as unlimited travel within the city.

Using Public Transport In Rome

Though it might appear daunting at first, using Rome’s public transport doesn’t have to be difficult.

It’s affordable, easy to use, and without doubt, the smart way to get about. The combined network of subway trains, buses, and trams gets you just about anywhere in the city.

How to Get Around in Rome Using Metro?

Does Rome have good public transportation? The answer is definitely yes!

The Metro’s simple, with just three lines. A and B get you to the likes of the Colosseum and the Spanish Steps, but not everywhere’s covered, so you’ll need the trams and buses too – or be prepared to walk.

If you’re still not sure how to get around Rome by public transport, then this is clearly the best option. The metro in Rome runs from about 5:30 AM until 11:30 PM on weekdays and until 1:30 AM on Fridays and Saturdays.

A single journey costs 1.50 €, but you can also use a metro pass in Rome for unlimited travel. All Rome’s metro tickets can be purchased at stations, tabacchi shops or via the application.

Getting around Rome by Bus

The buses in Rome are a great complement to the Metro. With over 350 lines, the Rome bus system weaves through the city and beyond, with a coverage that the Metro cannot offer.

Bus fares in Rome are the same as the Metro’s: a single journey costs just 1.50 € and is valid for 75 minutes. With this ticket you’ll be able to transfer across buses, trams and the Metro within this time frame.

Bus services operate from early morning, around 5:30 AM, until midnight. Rome also provides a network of night buses running from 12:30 AM until 5:30 AM.

Rome bus pass and tickets can be purchased at Metro stations, tabacchi shops, and via the online TicketAppy application.

Tram tickets in Rome

The tram in Rome is a great way to travel swiftly. Its 6 main lines crisscross the city. Trams in Rome run roughly from 5:30 AM until midnight.

Here again the ticketing system is the same as buses and the Metro lines. A single ride costs 1.50 € and allows you to also travel by bus and metro with the same ticket. Tickets are available at Metro stations, tabacchi shops, and via the application.

Tip – Bear in mind the tram doesn't cover the entire city and will be more of a complement to buses and metro.

Rome Train pass

Wondering how to use trains in Rome? The Roman train comes with 3 lines that connect Rome to surrounding areas.

The service runs from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM. Rome train prices are affordable and you’ll be able to buy your tickets at stations and through vending machines.

Don’t hesitate to buy a Rome train pass to save money on your trips. The train is a great way to visit beyond the city's core.

Rome Taxis & Uber In Rome

There are times, however, when it’s just more sensible or convenient to hop in a taxi. You might have a late arrival or you’re schlepping to and from the airport with a lot of suitcases.

Uber’s loyal following will be delighted to learn that the ban imposed in April 2017 was lifted soon afterwards. Download the app and you can see which cars are in your area.

White taxis are also easy to locate. You’ll see them lined up by an orange “Taxi” sign outside stations and most visitor attractions. Simply walk to the front of the line and off you go.

The Comune sets fares and you can find the current tariffs on their website here. You can pay by credit card, but carry cash just in case. Fixed rates apply to the airports but within the city, make sure the driver is using the meter and never take an unlicensed cab that you’ve hailed off the street.

Pro tip – If you plan to take a taxi and aren’t sure where the nearest rank will be, ask your hotel concierge for the number of a reputable firm and call them when you need them.

How to Buy Rome Public Transport Tickets

To purchase a single use Metrebus ticket will set you back a very reasonable €1,50. Each ticket allows you one jaunt on the subway (including any change of train), a journey by bus of up to 100 minutes or a single tram ride.

You can buy these Rome public transport tickets at Metro stations. This is the most convenient way if you’re going to be ducking underground.

However, you can’t buy tickets on board a bus or tram, so you’ll need to buy them before you board. Find them at a newsstand or kiosk where you see the word “Tabacchi”. It’s important that you validate your ticket on the machine inside the bus or tram – else you can face a €50 fine.

Rome Public Transport Map

Before you reach your destination, make sure you have a Rome public transport map at hand.

You’ll be able to find comprehensive maps of the metro, buses and trams, all in downloadable PDF format, on ATAC's website. It’s way handier than Google Maps.

Here are just a few that will help you get around. For more maps, visit ATAC's official website.

Rome Public Transport Prices 2024 (Bus, Tram and Metro Ticket price)

Here are your Rome public transport prices & ticket options :

• 🎫 B.I.T. standard ticket : it is valid for one Metro ride or 100 minutes on all buses allowing transfers. €1.50
• 🎫 24 hour ticket : it is valid for unlimited metro, bus, and train travel within Rome for 24 hours from first validation. €7.00
• 🎫 48 hour ticket : it is valid for unlimited metro, bus, and train travel within Rome for 48 hours from first validation. €12.50
• 🎫 72 hour ticket : it is valid for unlimited metro, bus, and train travel within Rome for 72 hours from first validation. €18.00
• 🎫 C.I.S. €24.00. It is a Weekly ticket. It is valid for 7 calendar days

Note: Rome public transportation is free for children under 10 years old (with accompanying adult).

If you plan on making several journeys, and you probably will because the sights are spread out, then it’s worth considering a Rome public transport travel pass.

You can opt for a 24, 48 or 72 hour Roma ticket. They cost €7,00, €12,50 and €18,00 respectively.  So if you make five trips in one day, it’s cheaper to buy the day pass.

Pro tip: if you’re going with the single ticket option, buy a few upfront to save you having to queue multiple times.

Rome Public Transport Accessibility

Getting around Rome on public transport is now way easier for disabled people, kids, strollers and older people.

You’ll find elevators and ramps at many major metro stations like Termini station, as well as low-floor buses and dedicated spaces on trams and buses.

Smaller stations such as Spagna, Barberini, Repubblica, Vittorio Emanuele, and San Giovanni might be tricky to navigate because they don't have elevators or chairlifts.

If you find yourself in one of these stations, you may need help from the staff, although it's not guaranteed they'll be available or reliable.

Rome Public Transport Travel Passes

Passes that include free transport as well as discounted admission for attractions are always worth considering. Particularly if you plan to tick off a lot of visitor attractions.

Roma Pass Public Transportation

The Roma Pass offers 72-hour access to public transport and entry to one or two attractions starting at €55. Not sure if it's worth it? You'll need to use public transport a lot to make it worthwhile. Check out my detailed guide to see if the Roma Pass is a good fit for you.

They are valid from the time they are first used, not the date they are purchased.

Buy Roma Pass online (available here) before you go here or at any of Rome’s major museums, tourist information centers or train stations. You must fill in your details on the back as the pass is not transferable.

Tip – Choose carefully to maximize the value of this admission fee. You’ll find full listings of participating museums and attractions on their website. Be aware that airport transportation is not covered under the pass.

Omnia Card – Rome and Vatican Pass

If you’re looking to skip the line at the Vatican, consider the more expensive Omnia Pass which retails at €149,00.

It’s valid for three days, includes a 48 hour Roma Pass as part of the package but also gets you free public transport, use of the Roma hop-on hop-off bus, fast track admission to the Vatican, Sistine Chapel, and St Peter’s Basilica. Hop on hop off buses are a convenient way of seeing the sights if it’s your first visit to Rome.

Pro tip – It’s worth remembering that many museums close on Mondays, making a pass poor value on that day, so buy your pass for another day.

Online Travel Card (Airport Transfer)

Also, you might consider this premium transport service, you'll have a dedicated driver waiting for you upon arrival, ready to take you directly to your destination.

You won't have to worry about navigating the city or lugging your bags around on public transport. Instead, you'll be able to sit back and relax in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle while your driver takes care of everything.

FAQs

Conclusion

Make your way through bustling streets confidently using this essential guide to Rome's public transport.

To fully enjoy your trip, prepare yourself beforehand and get yourself a bus and metro map.

Also consider buying some passes to save money and remember to validate your ticket each time you use the metro, a bus or the tram.

Keep this guide at hand during your trip and you’ll have all you need to keep track!

We hope you have fun experiencing Rome’s public transport. Why not book your passes now for your upcoming trip?